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CPT 30020: Aspiration/Drainage of Nasal Septal Abscess or Hematoma
CPT code 30020 represents the aspiration and drainage of pus or blood from the nasal septum for treatment of a septal abscess or nasal hematoma. The procedure is a focused minor surgical intervention to evacuate collections that can compromise nasal structure, airway, or lead to infection. Nationally, timely diagnosis and drainage are important to prevent complications such as septal necrosis or saddle deformity, making this code relevant across outpatient and ambulatory surgical settings.
Key payers included in this analysis are Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise view of the clinical context for CPT code 30020, typical sites of service, and common billing considerations. The publication summarizes available benchmarks, payer coverage patterns, and notable policy or coding updates where present. It also outlines typical service lines and the clinical indications that drive use of the code.
This overview is designed to help billing professionals, clinical leaders, and policy analysts quickly understand what CPT code 30020 captures, why it matters in ambulatory ENT care, and where to look for payer-specific guidance and documentation requirements.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 30020 describes the aspiration of excess pus or blood from within the nasal septum for treatment of a septal abscess or nasal hematoma. This procedure involves drainage of a collection within the septal tissues to relieve pressure, remove infected material, or evacuate reaccumulated blood following prior injury or necrosis.
Service Type: Minor surgical drainage/aspiration of nasal septal collection
Typical Site of Service: Office, ambulatory surgical center, or hospital outpatient setting